3M, Polaris Partner for E-Book Integration

The move will give users at participating libraries the ability to browse the 3M Cloud Library in addition to the library's existing catalogue.

Other features of the integration include:

One account profile for both physical and e-book transactions, where patrons can receive notifications and status updates;

A single interface to create circulation reports, and manage and buy e-books for libraries;

Access to 3M eReaders to view e-books without purchasing their own device; and

Downloadable apps for iOS, Android, and PC platforms that will allow users to bookmark texts across devices, browse the collection, and check out books.

The 3M Cloud Library service has been deployed to 10 beta sites in the United States, and is slated to be installed at 30 more library systems in April. Patrons at participating libraries will have access to 100,000-plus books from more than 40 publishers, including Random House and Harper Collins.

As part of a subscription agreement with 3M, libraries will be able to transfer media licenses to another platform if they decide to switch.

To access the system, library patrons need to download one of the apps, select their library, and type in their library card number. They will then receive a cloud-based account.

Tim Sohn is a 10-year veteran of the news business, having served in capacities from reporter to editor-in-chief of a variety of publications including Web sites, daily and weekly newspapers, consumer and trade magazines, and wire services. He can be reached at timothyjsohn@gmail.com and followed on Twitter @editortim.